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LED Myths that You must Ignore

Light Emitting Diode (LED) bulb is the wave of the future, yet there are many myths that circulate. This article will discuss some popular LED myths so that you will be able to discern fact from fiction and know what to expect and understand how they can be used effectively.

Before we begin exposing LED myths, let’s familiarize ourselves with the technology. An LED light bulb is a solid state lighting device that fits in standard screw-in connections but uses diodes to produce light. It is a “directional” light source, therefore, it focuses on a specific area, making it brighter compared to the other types of bulb. These are an environment friendly and lasts for years.

LED Myths

Now that we are familiar with how LED technology works, let’s look at some of the myths that we may hear while hanging around.

“LEDs last forever.”

While LEDs are typically longer lasting bulbs, they will fade out over time. Depending on the quality of the bulb and the operating conditions, LED bulbs can retain 70 percent of their initial output for at least 6 years or 50,000 hours. If they are run constantly, they can last twice as long as fluorescents and many times longer than incandescents.

“LEDs are expensive.”

Another LED myth, the truth is that these will end up saving you money over time. Although initial costs of the LED may be higher, because the bulbs have a longer life, are more durable and reliable, and require less maintenance, they will actually work out to be cheaper than fluorescent and incandescent bulbs. Also, because they require less energy, they will actually lower your energy bill by up to 80%, another factor that will serve as a payback to your investment.

“Wait for LED pricing to go down before investing in this technology.”

As previously explained, LEDs are a wise long term investment. While a price reduction may make the savings even more worthwhile, investing in this product is never a bad idea and really, the sooner the better.

“LED Technology is too new.”

Many people still think of LED technology as a new thing. However, LED technology has been around for over a decade. It has been used in several safety applications and can also be effective in industrial use including manufacturing operations, warehousing and maintenance. In fact, because of its cost effectiveness and environmentally friendly properties, it is becoming more popular in industrial applications.

“LEDs contain mercury.”

Another LED myth is that the bulbs contain mercury, a chemical which can cause adverse health issues if exposure occurs. The truth is, LED bulbs do not contain mercury but fluorescents and compact fluorescents do. Additionally, these also generate about half the heat of other bulbs which results in a reduced amount of UV radiation.

“LED Bulbs are not bright enough for industrial applications.”

If you are working in an industrial environment, bright lights are essential. Many feel that LEDs do not have the power to adequately provide light in these situations. However, this is not the case. Advancements in technology have resulted in a wide range of fixtures, from low to high lumen outputs. This means that you can find LED lighting suited to your specific business needs. To maximize its output, thoroughly plan the placement so it may be necessary to consult a professional..

“LED is too blue”

Not entirely an LED myth, LEDs do tend to give off a cooler lighting than some other bulbs that result in more of a blue tone. However, customers usually cite an improvement of the overall lighting situations following upgrades. In addition to this, LEDs are expanding in their lighting variety making a wider option of colors available.

“LEDs do not offer sufficient dimming capabilities.”

A bit of research will prove that this is definitely another LED myth. The fact is, LEDs offer several options in quality dimming settings. Make sure you are purchasing a dimmable LED bulb that is compatible with a traditional dimmer or you may choose to upgrade your dimmer switches.

“Magnetic ballasts in LEDs require service and replacement.”

LED bulbs don’t actually use magnetic ballasts. What the bulbs have instead are electronic drivers…and they do not require replacement or maintenance. LEDs are not actually light bulbs but semiconductors which is why they require electronic drivers to deliver power. Quality bulbs will feature drivers with well-designed, integrated control features like dimming, sensing and automatic on and off capability.

“LED lighting does not work well in high temperatures.”

LED lighting has been tested in a wide variety of temperatures and always performs at least as well as fluorescents and HIDs. Additionally, it performs exceptionally well in cold temperatures, too.

“LED Bulbs are too bright for high intensity applications.”

A well designed LED bulb will manage glare and light with optics that minimize direct sightline, glare and color temperature.

LED technology is the way of the future and you shouldn’t let LED myths get in the way of taking advantage of this technology. Do your own research well or consult a professional for more information. LED technology is a safe, cost effective and reliable way for you to provide lighting to your home or business. Don’t let myths get in the way of using this updated technology.